Length (ft) Enter the length of the area in feet (e.g., 20)

Width (ft) Enter the width of the area in feet (e.g., 10)

Depth (in) Enter the desired sand depth in inches (e.g., 2)

Sand Type Dry Sand (standard) Masonry Sand Play Sand Wet Sand Select the type of sand for weight estimate

Quick Examples:

Small Sandbox Patio Base Layer

Calculate Clear

This calculator is for informational purposes only. Verify results with appropriate professionals for important decisions. Actual sand requirements may vary based on compaction, moisture content, and surface conditions.

Use this free online Sand Calculator to calculate your sand volume and weight. Simply enter your length, width, and depth to instantly get results in cubic yards and pounds. This tool helps you estimate how much sand to purchase for construction and landscaping projects.

How Sand Volume Is Calculated

The calculator finds the volume of sand needed by treating your area as a rectangular box. First, it converts the depth from inches to feet so all measurements use the same unit. Then it multiplies length times width times depth to get cubic feet. Finally, it divides by 27 to convert cubic feet to cubic yards, which is how sand is typically sold.

The weight estimate uses standard sand density values that vary by sand type. Dry sand weighs about 2,700 pounds per cubic yard, while wet sand can weigh more due to water content.

What Your Sand Calculator Result Means

The sand volume tells you how much space the sand will fill in cubic yards. This is the number you would use when ordering sand from a supplier. Most landscape supply companies sell sand by the cubic yard or by the ton. The weight estimate helps you understand the total load if delivery is based on weight.

For a small sandbox of 6 feet by 6 feet with 6 inches of sand, you would need about 0.67 cubic yards, which weighs roughly 1,800 pounds. A patio base layer of 20 feet by 10 feet at 2 inches deep requires about 1.23 cubic yards, weighing approximately 3,300 pounds.

Always order 5-10% extra sand to account for settling, spillage, and uneven ground conditions.

Accuracy, Limitations and Common Mistakes of the Sand Calculator

How Accurate Is the Sand Calculator?

The calculator provides good estimates for rectangular areas with uniform depth. The volume calculation is mathematically precise. However, actual sand needs may vary by 5-15% due to factors the calculator cannot measure. Sand density varies based on moisture, grain size, and compaction, which affects weight estimates.

Limitations of the Sand Calculator

This calculator works only for rectangular or square areas. It cannot calculate for circular, triangular, or irregularly shaped areas without dividing them into rectangles. The calculator does not account for ground slope, which may require more sand on one side. It also assumes loose, uncompacted sand and does not adjust for settling that occurs after installation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to order extra sand: Always add 5-10% to account for settling and spillage during spreading.
• Measuring depth incorrectly: Make sure depth is measured in inches, not feet, as the calculator expects inches for this input.
• Ignoring compaction: If you plan to compact the sand, it will take up less volume and you may need more material.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this Sand Calculator for?

This calculator is designed for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and landscaping professionals who need to estimate sand quantities for projects. It works well for planning sandboxes, paver installations, lawn leveling, and similar rectangular area projects.

How often should I use this calculator?

Use this calculator whenever you are planning a new project that requires sand. If you are comparing different project sizes or depths, run the calculation multiple times with different values to understand how changes affect the amount of sand needed.

Does this calculator work for circular or irregular areas?

This calculator only works for rectangular or square areas. For circular areas, you would need a different formula. For irregular shapes, try dividing the area into smaller rectangles and calculating each section separately, then adding the results together.

Can I use this calculator for gravel or other materials?

The volume calculation works for any material that fills a rectangular space. However, the weight estimate uses sand density, which differs from gravel, soil, or mulch. Check with your supplier for the correct density if ordering by weight.

Is the Sand Calculator free to use?

Yes, this calculator is completely free to use with no sign-up required. It works on any device with a web browser.